I would never lambast men for having a private 'hot' discussion. But John, as the prime minister, what you say and how you act publicly has greater repercussions. I understand that you are trying to appeal to the 'average kiwi bloke', but in doing so you have lowered yourself to the lowest common denominator. You are providing fantastic fodder for the media, further objectifying women.

I look forward to further 'high achiever' lists, this time not based on 'hotness' please.

I will start it off - congratulations to 17 year old Jamie Fenton who has just been awarded Young New Zealander of The Yearfor her all-round abilities as a youth role model, academic achiever and inventor. Amazing girl, fantastic achievements!

Kind regards,

Rachel Hansen

*Postscript: The fact that John Key's original conversation took place live on air with a man who hopitalised his partner in a domestic violence incident (fracturing her back) makes this talk about women all the more inappropriate.

Also let's not forget that Phil Goff joined in: ‎"Meanwhile, Labour leader Phil Goff said Liz Hurley “was pretty close” to being on his top five hot women list". When he could have refused to answer the question on the basis that it's ridiculous, inane, sexist, pointless, insulting etc.

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Francesca

3/2/2011 05:37:46 am

Well said, Rachel. It seems even leaders with all their knowledge of right and wrong need to be reminded of what is not acceptable.

@Boganette - yes, I was so disappointed that Goff also engaged in this. It's fuelled by the media, and these men are giving them exactly what they want. *big sigh*
On a more lighthearted note, at least Goff ranked his wife at #1. Where has Key ranked Bronagh?!

Reply

savvy_1

3/2/2011 12:01:09 pm

I am disgusted that the Prime Minister would even lower himself to talk to Tony Veitch let alone enter into a discussion as demeaning and trite as this with someone who has been convicted of seriously assaulting a woman. Disappointing that Phil Goff also joined in. They will never be considered statesmen and they are rapidly losing the respect of the public. New low for them both.